If you love kirtan and would like to dive deeply into learning about the philosophy and tradition of the practise, as well as gaining some knowledge of traditional kirtan instruments – please join us on this 7 day immersive course!

Whilst the two-month summer course welcomes those at all levels of practise, this course particularly facilitates beginners, either in instrument study and/or the bhakti yoga philosophy and lifestyle. Students will gain skills in playing instruments and singing for kirtan, supported by a thorough exploration of the teachings that support kirtan practise.

The course will be taught by Jahnavi Harrison and a team of support teachers, and held within the magnificent setting of Radhadesh, a spiritual community set in the rolling hills of the Ardennes. The 18th-century castle houses a beautiful Krishna temple, and the surrounding buildings include classrooms, bakery, boutique and bookstore, and two art galleries. Due to the immersive nature of the course, the daily schedule will be fairly full, but there will be some free time to explore the surroundings and absorb the devotional atmosphere, as well as attend the daily evening community kirtans.

N.B. For those with a particularly keen study in learning instruments, please note that this is a short course, and geared toward studying kirtan holistically. Instrument study is only one part of the curriculum, and teachers will need to divide one-to-one class time equally amongst the students. Please come with realistic expectations and we are confident you will have a memorable and deep experience!

Students will:

Learn fundamental concepts of raga (melody) and tala (rhythm) in relation to kirtan

Gain an introduction to the main kirtan instruments: harmonium, karatalas, and mridanga – through group and one to one sessions

Explore the basic philosophy and core practices of the bhakti yoga tradition

Gain confidence in leading/sharing kirtan with a small group

This short film was made in Russia in October 2015, by a small team of filmmakers who are passionate about sharing the culture of bhakti yoga with the world. It was shot on location in Moscow and Sochi, and profiles Jahnavi Harrison, who grew up with bhakti yoga and serves in the capacity of a kirtan (devotional call and response chanting) leader.

7:00 – 9:00 Morning Glory – each day will begin with a dynamic early morning session of japa meditation and kirtan to invigorate, inspire and set the tone for the day.

9:00 – 10:00 Breakfast

11:00 – 13:00 Theory session with Jahnavi – each day exploring different aspects of kirtan culture/philosophy and tradition

13:30-14:00 Lunch

16:00 – 18:00 Private sessions – a rota of one-to-one sessions will ensure each student has the opportunity for private instruction on their chosen instrument. Simultaneous group classes will give the opportunity for daily practise and feedback.

20:00 – 21:15 Evening kirtan – the Radhadesh community is known for its beautiful kirtan gatherings held for one hour each evening in the temple. Join the youth and members of the community to close the day in an uplifting way.

The event is starting on Sunday, 17th of June evening (check-in time from 15:30 on-wards), and finishes on Sunday 24th June with lunch at 13:00 (check-out time from the rooms is before 11:00). Extra days are charged with €53.

Exact dates of the course will be confirmed soon. You can submit your Kirtan Connection 2018 application using the link below. Students will be accepted in order which they applied. The total number of students is limited to a maximum of 10.

Manu is a festival organizer at Radhadesh, where he was born and grew up. After completing his public education as a teenager, he earned a B.A. in Vaisnava Theology (Bhaktivedanta College/Chester University) and is now a fulltime member of the Radhadesh community. He has spent lots of time on spiritual tours in India, North America and European countries. He takes part every evening, along with other young devotees, in the last evening kirtan in the Radhadesh temple.

Manu will be happy to answer all of your questions, but before emailing him please be sure you have read through all Kirtan Course texts, as most of the questions are answered there. Manu’s email is: manu@radhadesh.com

Videos, articles, stories… all related to the Kirtan you can read here Kirtan Blog